Good Safety Schools to Add to Your List

Many students have a list of colleges they are interested in. Some are schools they are almost certain they’d get into, and others might be colleges they dream about attending — their ultimate #1 choice. It can be easy to overlook the importance of adding college admissions safety schools to those lists. 

Students are excited and quick to focus on their top choices, spending time researching and even visiting them. But what if they don’t get accepted to their dream colleges?That’s where good safety schools for college admissions come in.

Even though what qualifies as a safe school depends on the specific student and their academic profile, some excellent schools qualify as safeties for many students. If you’re searching for safety schools to add to your college list, consider the following:

• Location: Miami, Florida
• Undergrad Enrollment: 46,500
• Acceptance Rate: 64%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1030–1220 / 21–27
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $17,641 / $30,039

FIU stands as a prominent public research university in the heart of Miami, offering students a dynamic urban environment paired with robust academic programs. With a focus on diversity, FIU provides a welcoming campus that serves as a gateway to many industries, especially international business and engineering.

The university’s designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution reflects its commitment to inclusivity, making it a top choice for students seeking a diverse educational experience. Students at FIU enjoy hands-on learning opportunities and proximity to one of the nation’s most vibrant cities.

• Location: La Crosse, Wisconsin
• Undergrad Enrollment: 9,800
• Acceptance Rate: 74%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1116–1296 / 21–26
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $15,965 / $24,784

UWL is known for its close-knit campus and exceptional health sciences, archaeology, and business programs. Students benefit from small class sizes, ensuring a personal connection with professors and a collaborative academic atmosphere.

Located in Wisconsin’s picturesque Driftless Region, UWL offers students a blend of rigorous academics and outdoor adventures. High retention and graduation rates indicate a supportive and successful student body, making UWL a great option for those seeking both academic excellence and natural beauty.

• Location: Mount Pleasant, Michigan
• Undergrad Enrollment: 11,500
• Acceptance Rate: 77%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1010–1223 / 20–26
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $24,120

CMU offers an impressive range of over 200 undergraduate degree programs, allowing students to pursue various academic interests. Known for its experiential learning, CMU provides hands-on opportunities, ensuring students graduate with practical skills to excel in their careers.

Beyond academics, CMU fosters school spirit through its Division I athletics, where students can immerse themselves in a vibrant campus culture. The university’s commitment to providing a holistic education makes it an appealing choice for students seeking a balanced college experience.

• Location: Winona, Minnesota
• Undergrad Enrollment: 5,750
• Acceptance Rate: 77%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 960–1130 / 19–25
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $19,454 / $25,954

Winona State University is the oldest public university in Minnesota, offering over 200 degree programs. WSU is known for its high post-graduation success rate, with over 90% of students securing jobs related to their field of study shortly after graduation.

Located along the Mississippi River, WSU offers students the chance to enjoy both academic rigor and outdoor activities. The strong sense of community and dedicated faculty help create a supportive environment for academic and personal growth.

• Location: Bowling Green, Ohio
• Undergrad Enrollment: 14,500
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 990–1200 / 19–25
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $25,035 / $33,023

BGSU has a strong reputation for fostering leadership and community engagement, focusing on developing students into well-rounded individuals. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, with particular strength in education and business.

The campus atmosphere is built on diversity, respect, and teamwork, creating an inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds. BGSU’s dedication to service and social responsibility is evident throughout campus life and extracurricular activities.

• Location: Provo, Utah
• Undergrad Enrollment: 32,000
• Acceptance Rate: 59%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1230–1420 / 26–32
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $14,168

BYU offers a rigorous academic environment with a unique focus on integrating values and education. Known for its world-class language programs, BYU teaches 62 different languages, preparing students for global leadership roles.

With a beautiful campus nestled in Provo, Utah, BYU provides a wholesome environment that promotes both academic and spiritual growth. Its affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reinforces its commitment to character building and community involvement.

• Location: Fullerton, California
• Undergrad Enrollment: 35,600
• Acceptance Rate: 59%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 930–1190 / 18–26.5
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $23,679 / $35,559

CSU Fullerton, the largest of the CSU campuses, is widely recognized for its excellent programs in business and engineering. The university’s diverse campus reflects the multicultural environment of Southern California, providing students with valuable cross-cultural experiences.

Students benefit from a blend of high academic standards and practical learning opportunities, particularly in its federally designated Hispanic-Serving and Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving institutions.

• Location: Jacksonville, Florida
• Undergrad Enrollment: 14,100
• Acceptance Rate: 77%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1000–1210 / 19–26
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $16,345 / $30,749

UNF offers students an intimate, personalized educational experience in the rapidly growing city of Jacksonville. Its strong programs in business, health sciences, and engineering draw students from across the nation.

The university’s location provides easy access to both urban amenities and natural landscapes, including Jacksonville’s beaches, making it an attractive option for students seeking balance between academics and recreation.

• Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Undergrad Enrollment: 29,200
• Acceptance Rate: 71%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1130–1300 / 23–29
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $25,112 / $41,789

LSU’s vibrant campus life is matched only by its academic excellence, particularly in fields like engineering, business, and mass communication. The university’s strong athletic culture adds to the lively campus environment, fostering school pride.

Located in the state capital, Baton Rouge, LSU provides students with numerous research opportunities, internships, and networking prospects, especially for those interested in government or industry careers.

• Location: Oneonta, New York
• Undergrad Enrollment: 5,300
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 978–1169 / 19–27
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $23,366 / $33,276

SUNY Oneonta provides an enriching learning experience with a focus on undergraduate research and sustainability. The school’s small class sizes offer an intimate academic environment, allowing students to form close relationships with faculty.

The campus is situated in a picturesque part of New York, combining natural beauty with a commitment to social responsibility. SUNY Oneonta is ideal for students looking to balance academics with community engagement.

• Location: Geneseo, New York
• Undergrad Enrollment: 4,400
• Acceptance Rate: 74%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1170–1310 / 25–30
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $23,207 / $33,117

SUNY Geneseo is known for its strong liberal arts programs, providing students with a well-rounded education. The university’s high participation in study abroad programs gives students a global perspective, making it a great choice for those interested in international experiences.

The campus, often noted for its beauty, offers a vibrant student life with plenty of opportunities for extracurricular activities. Geneseo’s academic rigor and welcoming atmosphere make it a top choice for students seeking a traditional college experience.

• Location: Hattiesburg, Mississippi
• Undergrad Enrollment: 10,258
• Acceptance Rate: 99%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A / 19–27
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $9,618 / $11,618

USM boasts a wide array of academic programs and is particularly known for its research opportunities in marine biology, education, and the arts. The campus offers a supportive learning environment where students can excel academically while participating in various extracurricular activities.

As a large public university with a strong community spirit, USM provides a balance of affordability and quality education. The university’s location in Hattiesburg gives students easy access to both outdoor activities and urban amenities.

• Location: Laramie, Wyoming
• Undergrad Enrollment: 8,518
• Acceptance Rate: 96%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1030–1240 / 20–27
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $6,277 / $20,827

The University of Wyoming offers students an incredible outdoor experience alongside academic excellence. Located in the scenic Rocky Mountains, UW attracts students who are passionate about environmental sciences, geology, and outdoor recreation.

With small class sizes and close faculty relationships, UW fosters a collaborative and tight-knit academic community. The university’s focus on hands-on learning, especially in its research programs, makes it a top choice for students seeking both adventure and academics.

• Location: Montclair, New Jersey
• Undergrad Enrollment: 17,290
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 950–1200 / N/A
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $14,767 / $22,470

Montclair State offers students access to New York City’s wealth of opportunities while enjoying the peacefulness of a suburban campus. Known for its strong arts and education programs, Montclair places a heavy emphasis on community service and social responsibility.

The university’s location allows students to gain practical experience through internships in nearby urban centers, providing them with a competitive edge in the job market. Montclair’s vibrant campus life and diverse student body make it an ideal choice for students looking for a dynamic college experience.

• Location: Tucson, Arizona
• Undergrad Enrollment: 40,407
• Acceptance Rate: 87%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1140–1370 / 21–29
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $12,736 / $37,258

The University of Arizona is a top research institution known for its strong programs in environmental sciences, space sciences, and engineering. Its Tucson campus provides a vibrant social scene alongside a challenging academic environment.

Students at U of A benefit from access to numerous research facilities and internships, particularly those connected to the space sciences. The university’s sunny location and large campus offer plenty of recreational and academic opportunities for students.

• Location: Bloomington, Indiana
• Undergrad Enrollment: 35,660
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1180–1400 / 27–32
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $11,333 / $38,352

IU Bloomington is known for its outstanding arts, business, and law programs, as well as a strong commitment to research. The campus is one of the most picturesque in the country, offering students a beautiful and inspiring learning environment.

The university’s large alumni network and state-of-the-art research facilities provide ample opportunities for students to succeed both academically and professionally. Bloomington’s cultural scene also offers students a rich experience beyond the classroom.

• Location: Elon, North Carolina
• Undergrad Enrollment: 6,337
• Acceptance Rate: 74%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1170–1360 / 25–30
• Total Cost: $38,725

Elon University is highly regarded for its focus on experiential learning and undergraduate teaching, consistently ranking among the best schools for student engagement. Students at Elon benefit from small class sizes and close relationships with faculty.

The university’s hands-on approach to education includes study abroad programs, internships, and undergraduate research opportunities. Elon's supportive community and focus on leadership development prepare students to succeed in their chosen fields. Students in the Triangle area can connect with our counselors in Raleigh to explore whether Elon or other nearby schools are the right fit.

• Location: Spokane, Washington
• Undergrad Enrollment: 5,084
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1210–1410 / 26–31
• Total Cost: $53,500

Gonzaga University is a Jesuit institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service. Its programs in business, law, and engineering are particularly strong, attracting students from all over the country.

The university’s emphasis on social justice and global citizenship encourages students to develop both intellectually and ethically. Gonzaga’s close-knit community and engaging campus culture make it an attractive option for students seeking a transformative college experience.

• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Undergrad Enrollment: 24,106
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1120–1370 / 24–31
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $21,095 / $30,602

Temple University is a major urban institution known for its diverse academic offerings, particularly in business, healthcare, and the arts. Its location in Philadelphia provides students with numerous opportunities for internships and professional development.

The university’s dynamic campus life, combined with access to the rich cultural scene in Philadelphia, makes it an ideal place for students to grow both academically and personally. Temple’s commitment to community engagement is evident throughout its many service-learning programs.

• Location: San Francisco, California
• Undergrad Enrollment: 6,018
• Acceptance Rate: 71%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1210–1410 / 27–31
• Total Cost: $58,222

USF is a private university known for its strong emphasis on social justice and entrepreneurship. Located in the heart of San Francisco, students have access to top-notch internships and networking opportunities, particularly in the tech and business sectors.

The campus provides a diverse and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to engage with real-world issues and make a positive impact. USF’s commitment to experiential learning helps students build both academic and professional skills.

• Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
• Undergrad Enrollment: 37,949
• Acceptance Rate: 53%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1200–1470 / 27–34
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $9,992 / $28,794

Purdue University stands out as a leader in STEM fields, particularly in engineering and computer science. Its cutting-edge research programs and strong industry partnerships make it an excellent choice for students aiming to be at the forefront of innovation.

Beyond academics, Purdue provides a supportive campus environment where students can engage in various extracurricular activities, from competitive sports to student-led organizations. The university’s extensive alumni network also provides valuable career connections for graduates.

• Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
• Undergrad Enrollment: 30,434
• Acceptance Rate: 57%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1220–1420 / 26–32
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $15,478 / $36,090

Virginia Tech is well known for its emphasis on engineering, agriculture, and business programs. The university’s research facilities are among the best in the country, providing students with opportunities to engage in groundbreaking projects.

Located in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, Virginia Tech offers students not only academic excellence but also a strong sense of community and a scenic environment. The Hokie spirit is evident in the university’s collaborative and innovative campus culture.

• Location: Duluth, Minnesota
• Undergrad Enrollment: 9,000
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1110–1350 / 22–28
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $22,646 / $27,944

UMD offers students a unique combination of a liberal arts education within a large research university system. Known for its strong programs in environmental science, engineering, and healthcare, UMD provides both academic rigor and outdoor opportunities.

The campus, which overlooks Lake Superior, offers students access to unparalleled natural beauty, making it ideal for students who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. UMD’s close-knit campus culture fosters a supportive academic environment.

• Location: Brockport, New York
• Undergrad Enrollment: 5,700
• Acceptance Rate: 76%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1060–1220 / 23–28
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $23,291 / $33,201

SUNY Brockport offers students the chance to study in a community-focused environment with strong programs in nursing, physical education, and business. The small, welcoming campus provides personalized attention and opportunities for hands-on learning.

Located near Rochester, SUNY Brockport offers students access to a city environment while maintaining a traditional college-town feel. Its commitment to student well-being is reflected in its comprehensive support services and thriving campus life.

• Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
• Undergrad Enrollment: 26,355
• Acceptance Rate: 89%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1190–1390 / 22–29
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $10,287 / $33,045

The University of Utah is a top-tier research institution, known for its programs in health sciences, engineering, and business. Its Salt Lake City location offers students access to internships, research partnerships, and outdoor recreation.

The university’s focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly through its Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute, makes it a great choice for students interested in launching their own ventures. With a vibrant campus and strong support for student initiatives, Utah fosters both personal and academic growth.

• Location: Kent, Ohio
• Undergrad Enrollment: 20,418
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1000–1210 / 18–25
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $12,846 / $22,316

Kent State offers a comprehensive range of programs, with notable strengths in fashion, aeronautics, and healthcare. The university’s strong focus on research and innovation provides students with ample opportunities for experiential learning.

Situated in a peaceful campus setting, Kent State offers students a balance of academic excellence and extracurricular activities. Its close proximity to Cleveland gives students access to additional professional development opportunities and cultural experiences.

• Location: East Lansing, Michigan
• Undergrad Enrollment: 39,201
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1100–1340 / 24–30
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $15,372 / $40,562

Michigan State University is known for its extensive academic programs, with strengths in agriculture, business, education, and STEM fields. As one of the largest public universities in the country, MSU offers students vast resources, from research labs to career services.

MSU’s sprawling, green campus fosters a lively student life, where Division I sports and a rich variety of clubs and organizations keep students engaged. The university’s global reach and commitment to research make it an excellent choice for students looking to excel in diverse fields.

• Location: Champaign, Illinois
• Undergrad Enrollment: 35,120
• Acceptance Rate: 45%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1340–1530 / 24–29
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $17,572 / $36,068

UIUC is a world-renowned public research university, particularly recognized for its engineering, computer science, and business programs. The university boasts state-of-the-art research facilities and numerous industry partnerships, making it a hub for innovation.

Located in the heart of Illinois, UIUC offers students access to a strong academic community and numerous extracurricular opportunities. Its reputation for academic excellence and vibrant campus life make it a top choice for students seeking a rigorous, well-rounded college experience.

• Location: Portland, Maine
• Undergrad Enrollment: 5,489
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 940–1170 / 18–25
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $11,282 / $23,196

USM provides students with the opportunity to study in Maine’s largest urban center while enjoying easy access to the state’s renowned natural beauty. Known for its strong programs in business, healthcare, and liberal arts, USM offers students personalized attention in a smaller campus setting.

The university’s location in Portland allows students to take advantage of internships and professional connections in a vibrant city environment. USM’s commitment to affordability and academic excellence makes it an appealing option for students seeking a well-rounded college experience.

• Location: Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania
• Undergrad Enrollment: 6,900
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 970–1150 / 18–26
• Total Cost In-state/Out-of-state: $20,775 / $24,883

Slippery Rock University offers students a close-knit, student-centered academic experience, with a particular focus on health sciences, education, and business. Its Division II athletic teams foster school spirit and community involvement.

Located in the beautiful hills of western Pennsylvania, SRU provides students with access to both urban and rural opportunities. The university’s commitment to student success is evident through its extensive support services and focus on experiential learning.

College admissions safety schools are institutions where a student’s academic credentials, such as GPA and test scores, exceed the typical requirements for acceptance. These schools are considered a "safe bet" in the admissions process, meaning the student has a high likelihood of being admitted based on their qualifications. 

Safety schools provide a backup option, ensuring that applicants have at least one or more college acceptances, even if they are rejected from more competitive or reach schools. It's recommended to apply to a few safety schools alongside more selective choices.

A student’s college list should include a variety of schools:

• Target schools
• Reach schools
• Safety schools

The terms “target,” “reach,” and “safety” in this context are commonly used to describe schools according to the odds a student has of being accepted. Since every student has different chances of getting into each college, every student’s college list will be unique to them.

Understanding each of these terms and the schools they describe is an important step in understanding the college admissions process.

Keep in mind that these terms refer to the chance a student has of getting into a particular school. A target school is a college that a student has a pretty good chance of getting into — say, a 40–70% chance of acceptance. 

A good rule of thumb to follow for target schools is that you shouldn’t be surprised if you get accepted, but don’t count on it as a sure thing, either.

Reach schools, also known as dream schools, are the ones that a student most likely would not be accepted into. There are two types of these schools.

The first type is the school that absolutely no one is guaranteed to get into. Schools like Stanford, Harvard, MIT, CalTech, and all the other schools with jaw-droppingly low acceptance rates are this type of reach school. No one should ever be confident about their chances of acceptance. 

The second type of reach schools include those that are specific to each student. Depending on test scores, class rank, GPA, and other factors, some students have little to no chance of getting into these schools, while others have much better chances.

Basically, college admissions safety schools are those that a student has a really good chance of getting into — say, at least a 75% chance. If a student has a GPA higher than 75% of applicants or a higher class rank, for example, those would be some factors that would help classify a safety school for a student.

Just like the other types of schools, safety schools are subjective; the college that one student has an excellent chance of being accepted into might be the same one that another student has little to no chance with. 

Including safety schools on your list is important for several reasons. It is vital to understand that a safety school isn’t a “lesser school” or a bad school. It’s simply a school where your academic credentials exceed those of the average accepted applicant.

If you are gathering information about safety schools, list only colleges you would be proud to attend. Choose colleges you would actually want to go to. You never know — if you end up attending, it might turn out to be the best college for you after all.

Once you know how to choose good safety schools, you should apply to two or three of them; ignoring them altogether puts you at risk of not rounding out your college applications. In other words, you don’t want to put all your eggs in one basket. 

By the same token, don’t apply to any more than that because you’ll begin to take time and effort away from your other applications. By applying to safety schools, you’ll avoid the unfortunate possibility of having no options at all if you apply only to reach and target schools and do not get in.

When choosing good safety schools for college admissions, the best way to get started is to look at the preceding classes to estimate your odds of acceptance. Compare your class rank, SAT and ACT scores, GPA, and other academic credentials with those of students who were accepted to the school in the past.

By comparing your academic profile to those of the average freshman in each college, you can see how you stack up. If your credentials are well above that of the average accepted student for that school, you can consider it a safety school for you.

Some of the smaller private schools are more difficult to get into than larger public universities. This isn’t always the case; some state schools, such as the University of Michigan, are pretty selective. Others, such as Indiana University, are not.

Check to see if a school in your state offers any kind of “guaranteed admission” program. For example, students of Texas high schools are guaranteed admission to public Texas universities as long as they meet certain testing, GPA, and class rank requirements.

Even though some of these schools are usually more difficult to get into, many of them do have high acceptance rates. Not only that, but they also often offer generous scholarships and grants, unlike some larger state schools.

Even though some private schools have hefty tuition rates, many of them also offer substantial merit aid to defray the high costs of attending. Merit aid is not based on need, so if you don’t qualify for need-based financial aid and have a solid academic profile, you may very well qualify for merit aid.

Video: What Safety Schools Should I Apply To | How to Pick Your Your College List

Safety schools are not only a secure option for college acceptance; they also often provide substantial financial aid opportunities. These schools frequently offer merit-based scholarships to attract strong applicants, even if the students' academic profiles exceed the typical range of accepted students.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic achievements such as GPA, test scores, or class rank. Not dependent on financial need. Many safety schools offer generous merit aid packages to entice high-achieving students.
2. Need-Based Financial Aid: Determined by a family’s financial situation, often through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Includes grants, work-study programs, and loans.
3. Institutional Grants: Grants offered directly by the university based on merit or need.
4. State and Federal Grants: Grants such as the Pell Grant or state-sponsored scholarships are available based on financial need.

• Lower Tuition Costs: Many safety schools offer lower tuition, especially for in-state students, and merit scholarships can make these schools even more affordable.
  
• Generous Merit Packages: Safety schools often provide larger merit scholarships to attract high-performing students, making them financially attractive.
  
• Flexible Scholarship Requirements: Unlike highly selective schools, safety schools may have more lenient GPA or test score requirements for scholarships.
  
• Opportunities for Academic Excellence: Students attending safety schools with scholarships can often graduate with less student debt and still receive a high-quality education.

Video: What is merit aid for college and what does it all mean for you?

Choosing the right safety schools is essential for ensuring you have viable options when it’s time for college decisions. However, students often make mistakes when compiling their lists. Below are some common pitfalls and tips for avoiding them.

Mistake: Students may think that less selective schools are guaranteed options.

Solution: Research each school’s specific admissions requirements, especially in competitive fields like nursing or engineering. Even some safety schools have competitive programs that may not be guaranteed.

Mistake: Students might choose safety schools without checking if they offer adequate financial aid or merit scholarships.

Solution: Look into both merit-based and need-based financial aid opportunities. Make sure the schools you select fit your budget even after you consider possible scholarships.

Mistake: Some students apply to only one or two safety schools, while others overwhelm themselves by applying to too many.

Solution: Aim for a balanced approach by selecting 2-3 safety schools. This provides enough backup options without taking time away from your target or reach school applications.

Mistake: A common error is picking schools you have no interest in attending just because they’re "easy" to get into.

Solution: Only select safety schools that you would be happy to attend. They should meet your academic, social, and financial needs. Take virtual tours, read student reviews, and ensure you can see yourself thriving there.

Mistake: Many students overlook smaller, private schools because of higher tuition rates, not realizing they offer substantial scholarships.

Solution: Research smaller, private institutions that offer generous merit aid. These schools can often become financially feasible with scholarships, and they may offer smaller class sizes or more personalized education.

Mistake: Students sometimes pick safety schools without considering the academic fit. Just because a school has a high acceptance rate doesn’t mean it’s a good match academically.

Solution: Ensure the safety school offers programs that align with your academic and career goals. Look into the faculty, internship opportunities, and graduation rates.

Mistake: Choosing safety schools in locations you wouldn’t realistically want to live in is a common error.

Solution: Consider the climate, culture, and proximity to home or other important factors when choosing safety schools. If you wouldn't be happy in a certain location, it's better to find another option.

Video: what if you only get into safety schools...

Several other universities fit the bill as a safety school for many students, including:

One of the best ways to find the right safety schools for you is to enlist the help of college admissions advisors who know everything there is to know about schools across the U.S. They are pros at matching students with schools that suit their needs and interests, making every college search a successful one.

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

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